Researcher(s)
- Delaney Slattery, Apparel Design, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Katya Roelse, Apparel Design, University of Delaware
Abstract
This study has been an exploration in the principals of laser cutting for fashion applications. Because we were asked to complete a display for The Henry Francis DuPont Winterthur Museum’s installation on Ann Lowe, we focused on fabric florals. Though most inspired by the craft of Ann Lowe’s rosettes and poppies in dresses like “My Rose Dream” and Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding gown, we also looked to reference floral elements created in Chanel’s Métiers d’Art under Karl Lagerfeld. Laser cutting in this project, as well as its applications in the world of fashion, was the center point of our research. Embedded in this work was innate and equal focus on both laser cutting and construction. For each type of flower created, we developed unique patterns so that each floral had a unique form. Additionally, each type of flower created required a unique construction process. Laser cutting technology allowed us to increase our efficiency by eliminating the processes of tracing and cutting over 300 flowers. The florals were the output of this specific project, but our familiarity with the technology behind laser cutting is the true takeaway. Through mastering Adobe Illustrator and laser cutting softwares in synchrony with the Universal PLS6.75 Laser Cutter, we’ll be able to expand our creativity with technique, form, and materiality in the future.